Overwatch 2 for Xbox Series X|S

The sequel update in the Overwatch series

Overwatch 2 is the free, action-packed sequel to Overwatch, the popular first-person shooter game from Blizzard Entertainment. Highly anticipated since the original game's release in 2016, Overwatch 2 will play similarly to the original, expanding and improving the formula. Changes include a free-to-play package, new characters, an updated engine, and cross-progression between platforms.

Overwatch 2 on Windows is a robust, engaging experience, but the game can also be played on PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, and Nintendo Switch. It is not available on Mac. It is the triumphant return of one of the best hero shooters on the market.

A bigger, better, and rebalanced Overwatch

Though Overwatch 2 aims to be an accessible experience for anybody, the demographic who enjoyed the preceding action game will feel especially at home with the look, feel, and overall momentum of Overwatch 2. The ebb and flow of this sequel are much the same, starring a colorful, diverse cast of powerful heroes contesting each other in team vs team combat.

Set just after the climactic story event of Overwatch, Overwatch 2 welcomes new heroes, maps, and modes. Veteran players will notice that core gameplay still revolves around PvP combat that blends three distinctive class types in different permutations. The game's wide roster of characters are still different variations of the three major archetypes: tank, damage, and support.

For new players unfamiliar with these archetypes, tank heroes, like the new Junker Queen, are designed to soak up damage and shatter fortified positions. They excel in claustrophobic chokepoints and wreak havoc on enemies too closely bunched together. While they're great at leading a charge, damage heroes like Sojourn are more easily killed. They can deal tremendous amounts of damage, however, using a wide range of tools and abilities.

Damage heroes need backup in order to reach their fullest potential, and that's where support heroes like Brigitte come into play. These heroes buff allies in various ways, either boosting their damage, shielding or healing them, or debuffing and disabling opponents. Their role on the team is more subtle; rather than going on long killstreaks, support heroes are the backbone of any team's survival.

Overwatch 2 vs Overwatch

One of the major changes from Overwatch to Overwatch 2 is team sizes. PvP modes now pit two teams of five against each other, rather than six. Roles are limited to one tank, two damage, and two support heroes per team, radically changing both the pace of a match and the overall positioning a team will need to take. The coveted tank role will become more important as a result, and team cohesion will play a bigger role.

Overwatch 2 also expands upon the game's RPG element, adding a Talents system that can be accessed and tweaked between matches. This consists of special augmentation for heroes' abilities that can be used during Hero Missions and Story Experience game modes. Each hero will have three different skill trees to progress through, further increasing the variation between players of the same hero.

Considered an update to replace the original Overwatch, the biggest new feature is a shared multiplayer environment between the two games. This means that both player bases can interact and play with one another. Existing users will be able to enjoy their hard-earned upgrades and stats, while still enjoying the new passives for each class.

These passives include a reduction to the knockback received by tank heroes, enhanced speed for damage heroes, and automatic health regeneration for support heroes when out of combat. As far as Mercy is concerned, her health regeneration capability is now doubled. Lastly, Elite units have been added to PvE scenarios. Enemy units here are altered to gain distinct properties to distinguish them from their base forms.

However, the real major change to the series is that Overwatch 2 has become free-to-play for all. If you already have Overwatch, it will just update to Overwatch 2 without any cost whatsoever. On the other hand, if you’re a completely new player without the first game, you can just simply download Overwatch 2 straight from its official website. 

Take note that the PC version requires you to download the Battle.net desktop application first. This is the game’s launcher, and you will also be required to use a Battle.net account—completely free, too — and the account will ask you to link a valid mobile phone number to be able to play the game. 

Player progression system overhaul

Blizzard Entertainment is dedicated to enhancing the player experience in Overwatch 2. Responding to feedback about the game feeling too grindy, the developers are designing a new Hero and player progression system that will provide a more rewarding journey for players. Set to replace the old player level system, the updated progression structure will feature various categories for leveling up and showcasing achievements to other players. This revamped system is anticipated to roll out later this year, offering an improved and satisfying progression experience in Overwatch 2.

What to expect in Season 10

Anticipation reaches a fever pitch with promises of one of the most significant Overwatch 2 updates to date. Season 10 is poised to introduce a ton of exciting changes, including a new DPS hero, gameplay alterations, Battle Pass updates, and quality-of-life improvements, all set to redefine the overall gaming experience. Aptly named “Venture Forth,” the update aims to turn the tables in terms of gameplay.

Perhaps the most notable upcoming change lies in how heroes are unlocked, eliminating the need for exhaustive grinding sessions and allowing players immediate access to new heroes as soon as the season begins. Another highlight is the introduction of Mirrorwatch, a fresh game mode that injects a twist into familiar hero gameplay by shuffling the abilities around, which can keep some players on their toes as they play.

Additionally, the Clash mode introduces Hanaoka, a reconstructed assault map inspired by the original Hanamura. Furthermore, fan-favorite hero Wrecking Ball receives a significant rework, allowing them to transfer overhealth to allies. Meanwhile, Season 10 also brings a host of cosmetic updates, including revamped appearances for several heroes and exciting additions to the Battle Pass. Mythic updates allow players to customize their favorite characters with new outfit variants, adding a layer of personalization.

However, the crown jewel of Season 10 is undoubtedly the introduction of a new DPS hero, Venture. Voiced by the talented Valeria Rodriguez, Venture brings a charismatic yet formidable presence to the battlefield, with a unique kit that appeals to both seasoned veterans and newcomers alike. Armed with abilities that range from stealthy maneuvers to disruptive crowd control, this hero promises to add versatility and variety to matches.

A team-oriented shooter experience

Since its successful debut, Overwatch has reigned as a landmark in both competitive and social first-person shooter games. To further its platform for more casual players, Blizzard has made Overwatch 2 a free-to-play experience. This will drastically lower the entry barrier for new players and will make the game accessible to anyone who wants to try it. 

In terms of presentation and content, Overwatch 2 is a major engine upgrade. Blizzard has further announced that Overwatch 2 will not be using any form of loot boxes, instead offering a Battle Pass where players can acquire items directly from the in-game shop. Overwatch 2 feels like an expansion and a long-awaited update to the original popular game.